Major General Ray Shields, the adjutant general for the state of New York, announces the recent promotion of members of the New York Army National Guard in recognition of their capability for additional responsibility and leadership.
Kevin Czachorowski from Byron, and assigned to the Company B, 642nd Aviation Support Battalion, received a promotion January 16 to the rank of master sergeant.
Army National Guard promotions are based on a Soldier's overall performance, demonstrated leadership abilities, professionalism and future development potential.
These promotions recognize the best qualified Soldiers for a career in the New York Army National Guard.
The Dean's List at the University at Albany recognizes the outstanding academic achievements of full-time undergraduate students.
To qualify for the Dean's List, students must earn a grade point average (GPA) of 3.25 or higher in their first semester of study and a GPA of 3.50 or higher in subsequent semesters.
Congratulations to the following hard-working individuals who are dedicated to their academic excellence. The UAlbany Fall 2024 Dean's List scholars include:
Ryan Bowen of Batavia, majoring in Business Administration
Lauren Reimer of Batavia, majoring in Biology
Sophia Minuto of Batavia, majoring in Political Science (intended)
Anneka Pray of Corfu, majoring in Political Science (intended)
A coalition of 69 environmental, faith, human rights, and good governance groups from across New York State are demanding that three developers withdraw their applications to site a data center at the Western New York Science and Technology Advanced Manufacturing Park (STAMP). In their letters, the groups cite the threat data centers pose to regional environmental quality, local quality of life, and the sovereignty and well-being of the federally recognized Tonawanda Seneca Nation, whose Reservation Territory abuts the parcel under consideration for a data center.
The letters assert the data center proposals are “not aligned with either New York state or international commitments to environmental sustainability, social responsibility, and long-term stewardship.” Rather, placing a data center at STAMP would “move our state in the direction of further environmental injustice.”
Signatories include the Western New York Environmental Alliance, Sierra Club Atlantic Chapter, Citizen Action of New York, Interfaith Climate Justice Community, and the NY Renews Coalition, which itself represents more than 400 environmental organizations across the state.
The coalition announces the delivery of these letters on the same day the Genesee Economic Development Center (GCEDC) plans to hold daytime public hearings on the three proposals. These hearings are required by Article 18-1 of the General Municipal Law and pertain to financial incentives proposed by GCEDC to each of the three applicants. GCEDC posted documents regarding these proposed incentives to their website at midday on Friday, January 31, which was also the deadline for the submission of written comments on said incentives.
To date, GCEDC has refused to disclose the identities of the companies represented by the investor group applicants. The financial incentive documents offer tax exemptions in the hundreds of millions of dollars to these unknown companies. To date, STAMP has already received more than $410 million in public monies.
“I am outraged at GCEDC’s utter failure of transparency and violation of the public trust. They scheduled ‘public’ hearings on these data centers in the middle of a workday with less than two weeks’ notice and then quietly buried information about proposed giveaways of hundreds of millions of taxpayer dollars to an obscure part of their website on the last business day before hearing public comment on these subsidies - which, I’ll add, would be directed to operations that will harm our shared environment and destroy our local quality of life,” said Margaret Wooster, one of the letter drafters and a Board Member of the Western New York Environmental Alliance. “This is shameful. Clearly, GCEDC does not actually want to know what we think about these incentives. Subsidies to a data center will not benefit the public: every person who pays taxes, breathes air, and drinks water in Western New York should be angry.”
‘Data center’ is a generic term referring to operations ranging from cryptocurrency mining to Artificial Intelligence processing. As the coalition’s letter outlines, data centers are well known for their massive energy demands - in the case of the three applications under consideration, between 195-250 MW of electricity per year - and their use of vast quantities of water. One of the applicants, Project Rampart, would include a ten million gallon holding pond.
Data Centers produce continuous, jet-engine-like noise that can be heard up to eight miles away. Scientific research establishes a link between excessive noise exposure and harms to both public health and the health of wildlife. Data centers also produce significant air pollution and large quantities of e-waste. Their strain to the energy grid can increase the frequency of blackouts and brownouts. The building of new infrastructure needed to service data centers is associated with consumer energy rate increases. Data centers produce few permanent jobs and rarely remain in operation for more than 10-15 years.
Data centers face opposition from other WNY communities concerned about their noxious public health and environmental impacts. The proposed data center would be sited on a parcel of land characterized by wetlands and located immediately adjacent to the Reservation Territory of the Tonawanda Seneca Nation, whose Council of Chiefs opposes STAMP.
Graham Corporation (NYSE: GHM) (“GHM” or the “Company”), a global leader in the design and manufacture of mission critical fluid, power, heat transfer and vacuum technologies for the defense, space, energy, and process industries, announced Wednesday key leadership changes as part of its established succession plan.
Daniel J. Thoren, President and Chief Executive Officer, will transition to the role of Executive Chairman, effective June 10, 2025 and will remain active in the operations of the Company for the foreseeable future. As part of the transition, Mr. Thoren will serve as a strategic advisor, focusing on guiding strategy and helping the Company grow through business development. With this change, Jonathan W. Painter, Chairman of the Board of Directors, will transition to Lead Independent Director.
In alignment with this plan, the Board of Directors has approved the appointment of Matthew J. Malone as President and Chief Operating Officer, reporting to Mr. Thoren, effective February 5, 2025. In this role, Mr. Malone will oversee, guide and lead each of the Company’s business units. Prior to this appointment, Mr. Malone has served as Vice President and General Manager of Barber-Nichols since 2021. Concurrently, Michael E. Dixon, Director of Sales and Marketing of Barber-Nichols, will be promoted to General Manager of Barber-Nichols reporting to Mr. Malone, effective February 5, 2025.
The Company further announced its intention for Mr. Malone to assume the role of Chief Executive Officer on June 10, 2025, and the expectation of his appointment to the Board of Directors. At that time, Mr. Dixon is expected to assume the role of Vice President of Graham Corporation and General Manager of Barber-Nichols.
Jonathan W. Painter, Chairman of the Board of Directors said, “I am pleased to announce these leadership appointments in accordance with our planned succession strategy, which demonstrates the bench strength of our executive team and reflects Graham’s commitment to developing exceptional talent. I would like to personally thank Dan for his leadership and tremendous accomplishments while serving as CEO since August of 2021 and we look forward to continuing to work with him in this next chapter, while he steps back from the day-to-day demands of public company leadership.”
Mr. Thoren said, "I am grateful to have led Graham as CEO and am proud of the great work we have completed during my tenure. Today’s appointments further highlight the strong talent we have attracted and developed across the entire organization, and I am pleased with the opportunity this transition has created within the Company. Matt Malone has demonstrated outstanding leadership capabilities throughout his time with Barber-Nichols and Graham, and his deep understanding of our business makes him the ideal choice to lead the Company into its next chapter of growth. Similarly, Mike Dixon's promotion to lead Barber-Nichols reflects his deep industry knowledge, product expertise and institutional knowledge of Barber-Nichols. I look forward to working alongside Matt, Mike, and the rest of the executive team to ensure we achieve our long-term strategic objectives and have complete confidence that under this new leadership structure, our company will continue to thrive and create value for our stakeholders."
Matt Malone brings over 15 years of engineering and executive experience to his new role as President and Chief Operating Officer. Mr. Malone joined Barber-Nichols in 2015 as a Project Engineer focused on rocket engine turbopump design and development. He was promoted to Navy Program Manager in 2018, overseeing key U.S. Navy programs and was appointed Vice President of Operations at Barber-Nichols in 2020 and then General Manager in 2021. Earlier in his career, he held a variety of engineering and management positions at GE Transportation. Mr. Malone earned his B.S. in Mechanical Engineering with honors in design optimization from Pennsylvania State University and his M.S. in Mechanical Engineering from Georgia Institute of Technology.
Mike Dixon has been an integral part of Barber-Nichols for the past six years, most recently serving as Director of Sales and Marketing. During his tenure, he has played a pivotal role in expanding the Company's technical capabilities and securing major contracts in the space and aerospace, and defense sectors. Prior to joining the Company, he held roles of increasing responsibility at Sundyne and began his career at ESS Metron. Mr. Dixon holds a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from Northern Illinois University.
The city of Batavia Police Department and Fire Department are currently investigating a structure fire that occurred in the early morning hours on Thursday on Vine Street in the City of Batavia.
At approximately 12:45 a.m., the Genesee County 911 Emergency Dispatch Center received a call from the downstairs tenant of 3 Vine Street reporting a fire in the upper apartment with three children trapped inside. Upon arrival, city police officers observed flames coming from a second-story window. Officers made their way to the second floor in an attempt to enter the apartment but were pushed back by smoke and heat. City Fire arrived moments after police and made entry into the apartment, where they located and rescued three children, ages 4, 10 and 12.
The children were the only occupants of the apartment at the time of the fire. All three children were transported to UMMC and then to Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester. All three children are siblings and their conditions will be updated at a later time.
The cause and origin of the fire are still under investigation. City Fire and City Police are working alongside each other as the investigation moves forward. More information will be released at a later date.
Two city police officers and one city fireman suffered minor injuries, but they were treated and resumed working. Assisting with the incident were Mercy EMS, the Town of Batavia Fire Department, the LeRoy Fire Department and the Genesee County 911 Emergency Dispatch Center.
The Finger Lakes Youth Apprenticeship Program (FLYAP) held its annual “Signing Day” for the Genesee County BOCES – Batavia Campus at Genesee Community College’s (GCC) BEST Center. More than 40 students at several local advanced manufacturing companies throughout the region. Fourteen seniors will begin their paid co-ops, while 27 juniors will job shadow at companies in Genesee, Livingston, Wyoming, and Monroe counties.
“The Finger Lakes Youth Apprenticeship Program is proud to grow its partnership with the Genesee Valley BOCES – Batavia Campus,” said Rich Turner, RTMA’s Director of Workforce Development. “We are connecting youth to exclusive on-the-job opportunities which will strengthen the workforce in the GLOW Region while preparing the next generation of advanced manufacturing professionals.”
The Finger Lakes Youth Apprenticeship Program was created in 2018 by the Rochester Technology and Manufacturing Association (RTMA) in partnership with Monroe Community College (MCC). The program is the first of its kind in New York State and is also supported by the RG&E Foundation, Genesee County Economic Development Center and Workforce Development Institute.
Since its inception, FLYAP has connected more than 825 students to nearly 150 businesses throughout the great Rochester and Finger Lakes region. FLYAP students have also earned credit for more than 750 college classes at no cost.
FLYAP will also be hosting “Signing Day” celebrations at other career and technical education high schools throughout the region.
Two projects in the City of Batavia submitted to the Genesee County Economic Development Center (GCEDC) are projected to generate over $7 million in local benefits.
The GCEDC board of directors will consider final resolutions for Graham Corporation’s expansion project and 202 Oak St, LLC’s hotel renovation at its February 6, 2025 meeting.
Graham Corporation is proposing to construct a new radiographic testing building at its manufacturing facility. The $3.3 million investment will add to an existing manufacturing building.
Graham Corporation is requesting a sales tax exemption estimated at $120,000 and a property tax abatement estimated at $20,934 based on the incremental increase in assessed value generated by the expansion. The project is estimated to generate $1.2 million in local fiscal impacts, including payroll and tax revenues, for an estimated $16 local benefit for every $1 of requested incentives.
A public hearing on the proposed initial project agreement was held on Jan. 30 in the City of Batavia.
202 Oak St, LLC is proposing to renovate the former Super 8 hotel’s 54 units. The $2.5 million investment would create 11.5 new full-time equivalent positions.
202 Oak St, LLC is requesting a sales tax exemption estimated at $104,163, a property tax abatement estimated at $257,823 based on the incremental increase in assessed value generated by the project, and a mortgage tax exemption estimated at $19,000. The project is estimated to generate $5.8 million in local fiscal impacts, including payroll and tax revenues, for an estimated $20 local benefit for every $1 of requested incentives.
In addition, the project is estimated to generate over $40,000 annually in bed tax revenue for the county once the renovated hotel is ramped up.
A public hearing on the proposed initial project agreement was held on Jan. 30 in the City of Batavia.
The GCEDC board meeting will be on Thursday, February 6 at 4 p.m. at the MedTech Center’s Innovation Zone, 99 MedTech Drive, Batavia.
Meeting materials and links to a live stream/on-demand recording of the meeting are available at www.gcedc.com.
Batavia Players, Inc. and Main St. 56 Theater are excited to kick off a brand-new season of theatrical performances, community events, and business partnerships. The organization recently held its Annual Board Meeting on Saturday, January 25, where new leadership was confirmed, committees were formed, and plans for the highly anticipated 2025 season were shared.
Election of Officers
The following officers were elected for 2025:
President: Patrick D. Burk
Vice President: Jodi Coburn
Secretary: Norm Argulsky
Treasurer: Dave Adams
2025 Season & Organizational Updates
The 2025 Gala was a huge success, and the recent "Drag Me Home" fundraiser saw a strong turnout, helping to generate funds for the theater.
Upcoming productions, including "The Mousetrap,” “Cupid's Stupid" and Shakespeare’s "The Winter’s Tale," are well underway, with rehearsals and ticket sales in progress.
As part of its continued growth and development, Batavia Players has established five key committees to help oversee and improve various aspects of theater operations. These committees will work collaboratively to support the theater’s mission and ensure its long-term success:
Administrative, Finance & Planning Committee – Oversees financial planning, budgeting, and administrative policies to ensure the smooth operation of the theater.
Box Office & Fundraising Committee – Manages ticketing operations and spearheads fundraising initiatives to generate support from donors, sponsors, and community members.
Membership & Volunteer Activation Committee – Focuses on recruitment, engagement, and retention of volunteers and members who are essential to the theater’s operations.
Advertising, Promotions & Public Relations Committee – Handles all marketing efforts, social media, press relations, and promotional campaigns to increase visibility and audience engagement.
Property, Maintenance & Care Committee – Ensures the upkeep, maintenance, and overall care of the theater’s physical space and technical equipment.
These committees are open theater members and community volunteers who wish to contribute their expertise and passion for the arts.
Exciting Lineup for the 2025 Season
Batavia Players has an incredible slate of productions planned for 2025, celebrating the theme "Pure Imagination." Audiences can look forward to a diverse mix of classic plays, musicals, and cabarets, including:
February 7-9 – Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap
February 14-15 – Cupid's Stupid: A Valentine's Day Cabaret
March 21-23 – Shakespeare in Springtime: The Winter’s Tale
April 11-13 – Lights, Camera, Action: A Cabaret
May 16-18 – Jesus Christ Superstar
July 18-19 – Summer Theater Camp: Frozen Jr.
August 15-17 – Summer Youth Theater: Be More Chill
September 12-14 – Laugh Tracks: A Musical Comedy Cabaret
October 24-26 – Hedda Gabler
December 12-14 – It’s A Wonderful Life
“This season is all about bringing creativity to life in unexpected ways,” said Patrick Burk, President of Batavia Players. “With Pure Imagination as our guiding theme, we are challenging ourselves to think outside the box—whether that means reimagining Shakespeare with a modern twist, putting a fresh spin on a beloved musical, or presenting classics in ways that will surprise and delight audiences. We’re giving our community a season filled with drama, laughter, and wonder, and we can’t wait for everyone to experience it.”
Exclusive Business Soirée – February 18
As part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen ties with the local business community, Main St. 56 Theater is hosting a Business Soirée on Tuesday, February 18, from 5 - 7 p.m.
This exclusive networking event is an opportunity for business owners, community leaders, and supporters of the arts to experience firsthand the transformative work happening at Main St. 56 Theater. Attendees will enjoy:
Guided Tours – Explore the theater and see how it has become a cultural hub for the Batavia community.
Live Performances – Enjoy two acts from a recent cabaret, showcasing the incredible talent that graces the Main St. 56 stage.
Networking & Refreshments – Connect with fellow business owners, artists, and community members over delicious food and drinks.
Corporate Sponsorship Opportunities – Learn about new sponsorship packages that provide businesses with unique marketing exposure while supporting local arts.
“This event is a chance for local businesses to see how they can be a part of the arts community,” said Jodi Coburn, Box Office Manager and Fundraising Committee Chair. “By partnering with Main St. 56 Theater, businesses not only support a vital nonprofit but also gain valuable visibility and goodwill within the community.”
RSVPs are requested by Saturday, February 15. To confirm attendance or for more information, contact Jodi Coburn at 585-813-4658 or boxoffice@bataviaplayers.org.
A Bright Future for Batavia Players & Main St. 56 Theater
With an ambitious 2025 season on the horizon and strong community engagement, Batavia Players is poised for an exciting year ahead.
For more information about upcoming productions, sponsorship opportunities, or ways to get involved, visit bataviaplayers.org or contact Heather Zerillo at admin@bataviaplayers.org.
Photo of Schroth working with students in the STEM Lab. Photo by Gretchen Spittler.
Press Release:
On Thursday, January 30, Maria Hagar, Grant Committee Chairman of the New York State Retired Teachers’ Association Western Zone presented a check for $1,000 to Byron-Bergen STEM Lab teacher Craig Schroth in the presence of Elementary Principal Kristin Loftus and a classroom of fourth-grade students.
Schroth’s grant proposal entitled “Meet the Microcosmos: Enhancing Elementary School Science Learning by Discovering the Unseen World that Surrounds Us” requested funds to expand student access to microscopes. It received one of five grants awarded.
“About 40 people applied and we gave out five grants for $1,000 each,” said Hagar.
Hagar retired 13 years ago and became a member of Retired Educators of New York (RENY).
“Our organization gets together because we all loved being teachers and we loved working with kids and we want to give back. We are able to give teachers money to improve or expand their programs.”
Schroth has been with Byron-Bergen for over 20 years but started the STEM Lab in 2014.
“When we started the STEM Lab we were using cardboard and masking tape and we’ve expanded to 3D printers and microscopes and getting kids excited about science and technology and engineering at a young age,” said Schroth. “We still do things with cardboard and tape, but we’ve given these kids a lot more opportunities with this program. It’s also an exciting time for new career opportunities in the area using engineers, designers, and advanced manufacturing. A major goal of our STEM Lab is to help students develop confidence, interest, and an appreciation for the STEM fields as they grow older.”
"I am so proud of the program that Mr. Schroth built at the elementary school and grateful we were awarded funds that will help the program thrive even more,” said Loftus.
The school currently has two digital microscopes. The RENY grant will be used to purchase three or four additional digital microscopes for use with kindergarten through fifth grade classes.
Photo of Byron-Bergen student with digital microscope. Photo by Gretchen Spittler.
Photo of Byron-Bergen student with digital microscope. Photo by Gretchen Spittler.
Photo of Byron-Bergen student with digital microscope. Photo by Gretchen Spittler.
Photo of (from left to right) Principal Kristin Loftus, retired teacher Patrick Hagar, Grant Committee Chairman Maria Hagar, and STEM Lab teacher Craig Schroth. Photo by Gretchen Spittler.
The Batavia City School District (BCSD) is now accepting registration applications for universal pre-kindergarten (UPK) and kindergarten programs for the 2025-26 school year.
BCSD will offer five full-day UPK programs and two half-day programs for the upcoming school year. BCSD’s UPK program is located at Robert Morris (80 Union St.) and at one community-based organization. The BCSD kindergarten program is located at Jackson Primary (411 S. Jackson St.).
UPK students must be four years old on or before December 1, 2025. Kindergarten students must be five years old on or before December 1, 2025.
For more information, including how to register online, visit bataviacsd.org/registration. You can also pick up and return your registration packet at the BCSD Registration Office located at 260 State Street, Batavia.
Hours of Operation are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 to 4 p.m. (excluding school holidays). For more information please contact registration@bataviacsd.org or 585-343-2480 ext. 1010.
The deadline to receive UPK applications for the 2025-26 school year is Thursday, May 1. There is no deadline to receive kindergarten applications.
John Bennett is leaving UConnectCare after dedicating the past 25 years at the agency formerly known as Genesee/Orleans Council on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse to helping those affected by substance and alcohol use disorder.
John Bennett Submitted photo.
With his last day as chief executive officer set for this Friday (Feb. 7), the 63-year-old Geneseo resident took time out to reflect upon a 40-year career in the field.
A reception for Bennett, which is open to the public, is scheduled from 4-6 p.m. Feb. 4 at The Recovery Station on Clinton Street Road, Batavia.
Bennett has accepted a grant-funded director of network development position with Forward Leading IPA’s WeLinkCare social care network that connects individuals and families to vital resources that address the social factors affecting health -- from housing and employment to food and transportation.
In his new position, he will oversee agencies, including UConnectCare, in 14 counties across the Finger Lakes region.
Q. Forty years is a long time in what can be a highly stressful field of work. What made you choose alcohol and substance use treatment and prevention?
A. In the past, I have shared that my grandfather, who I am named after, was an alcoholic. It was during the 1940s, ‘50s and ‘60s when they didn’t have EAP (Employee Assistance Programs) and much help for people like my grandfather. So, he died young from his alcoholism, and it affected my mom in a lot of ways.
My mom always worried that her children would develop alcohol and drug addiction, So alcohol was never allowed in our household growing up. If you came home with alcohol on your breath it didn’t matter what time of night it was she would get up to smell your breath.
Her whole life centered around breaking the cycle for her own children. Her sister, my Aunt Virginia, married a man who was alcoholic and she took me to AA and Al-Anon meetings when I was probably 8 or 9 years old. Also, my grandmother ended up living with us after my grandfather died. So my mom, my aunt and my grandmother influenced me to enter a field to help individuals and families with addiction.
I felt like it was a calling for me to help families and individuals with addiction. That’s how I got started.
Q. Where was your first job?
A. My first job was in Livingston County for what was then called Livingston County Council on Alcoholism. That was in 1985. I think there were 12 employees in total at the time – like two secretaries, a couple directors and the rest of us were counselors.
I went to college, SUNY Geneseo and SUNY Brockport, for counselor education and later I became a certified alcoholism counselor, a CAC, around 1989. I ended up working at LCCA for about 15 years.
Q. What brought you to GCASA, now UConnectCare?
A. I worked my way up in the field as a counselor and then as a team leader and eventually as the clinical supervisor. I was kind of recruited, actually, to come to GCASA by Beverly Maniace, who had just been promoted to deputy director in Batavia. She had a program director position open and asked me to interview.
So, I did, and I got the job a week later. That was in 1999. We were located in the bottom of the Growney Building (on Bank Street). We were there until 2003 and then moved to East Main Street to our current location.
Q. Dave Markham, the former executive director, was well respected in the community. What was your relationship like with him?
A. Dave was my mentor and when he left in 2012, I became the executive director and eventually the CEO. He has had a profound impact upon my life and career. David was very well respected in the community and in the behavioral health field. David gave me ample opportunity to get involved at the state level sitting on several state wide and local committees and he taught me a lot about how to be a leader.
Q. How has the substance use field changed over the years?
A. I started when substance abuse and alcoholism were divided up into two different sectors. And then eventually we became certified alcohol and substance abuse counselors.
There were two different divisions, and we treated drugs and alcohol differently at the time. DAAA and DSAS. Then the two different organizations merged to become OASAS (New York State Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services and now New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports).
When I first started we dealt mostly with long-term alcoholism and short-term drinking drivers. Opioids were a drug of last resort. Today the majority of our patients are addicted to poly substances and most included opioids. I never saw our organization opening a methadone clinic but we did in 2018 and I am thankful we did because we have helped a lot of people.
Q. What stands out as far as services available in Genesee and Orleans counties?
A. Looking back, the people that I met and the providers, especially those like Genesee Justice with its restorative justice program, stand out. I became friends with the director at the time, Dennis Wittman, and helped participate in pre-sentencing investigations when there was drug abuse involved.
Eileen Kirkpatrick, who was the director of Genesee County Social Services. People like Dennis and Eileen reached out to me when I first arrived in Genesee County and they introduced me to people and institutions that could make a difference in people’s lives.
I became part of the Criminal Justice Advisory Council, which is really unique across the state to have a council that's made up of criminal justice and service providers. I think that group of individuals does amazing things in our community and is incredibly collaborative. It’s unique and I think all the agencies try to work together and the county legislature has been mostly supportive of our services
I've just really been impressed with Genesee County and Orleans County, the providers and law enforcement and everybody works together to try to make the lives of individuals we serve better. That’s one of the blessings to be able to work in a place where we had those types of relationships,
Q. UConnectCare has grown significantly in recent years. Can you speak about that?
A. Over the last 10 years, we’ve grown from an agency of 68 employees to what will be about 190 employees when the Women & Children’s Residence in Albion opens in a few months.
That was my goal when I took over. It was very frustrating that urban communities had all these services and rural communities had none. So, a lot of our community members had to leave the area to get the services they need … like inpatient or detox or to get methadone. And so, my goal was to bring all those services here so that people didn't have to leave the community, and so that's what we set out to do.
We added a full continuum of services of care in a rural community. I would say that one of my biggest pride and joys is that our organization really tries to make a difference. The staff here care about the people we serve and always try to do the right thing. I will miss them all dearly.
I think opening The Recovery Station at the former Bohn’s Restaurant is one of my favorite projects, because that is one of the most unique recovery centers across the state.
Recently, AA hosted an event there and they had 71 people there. We have had several events with over a 100 people. So, it’s those things that make a difference in the lives of the people we serve.
Q. What challenges have you faced and continue to face?
A. I think the hardest part of working in this field is that I've spent 40 years working in a stigmatized field. And no matter how hard I fought to reduce stigma, it still exists today in the year 2025. People with addiction continue to be stigmatized and that sometimes makes me feel like I didn’t do enough to change the attitudes towards people with addiction.
The people that we serve are just people like everybody else. They just have a drug addiction and when they become sober or get into recovery, they’re some of the kindest and coolest people you could ever meet.
So, that probably has been the most difficult part. When I reflect on how we tried to open a recovery center down on Swan Street and they kind of ran us out of town. Those are disappointing moments, not because we weren’t able to open a program, but because it sends a message to people who are struggling with addiction and are in recovery that they are somehow less than others. It makes me sad that people have this misconception of people in recovery.
Q. What can you say about the people you have worked with over the years?
A. Well, obviously, all of the staff that I've gotten to work with in the past 25 years at UConnectCare are amazing people. I’ve had the privilege to work with a great leadership team. Some of us have been together for the full 25 years.
I want to be careful to mentions individuals because I am sure I will forget someone important, so I’ll just say that my current leadership team is comprised of incredible people who have devoted their careers to serving people and their families suffering with addiction. I couldn’t have done half of what we accomplished without them. I love getting to know as many staff individually as possible. I will miss them all.
I’ve worked with a great volunteer board of directors over the years. I want to say a huge thank you to all of them over the past 13 years. Most of them had some kind of connection to the work we do and I truly appreciate all their guidance over the years.
In the community, I need to mention Jay Gsell and now Matt Landers, Genesee County managers, and also Lynda Battaglia and Danielle Figura, who head up the mental health clinics in Genesee and Orleans. They have always had our backs and have been supportive all we do. There have been so many great people along the way -- too many to mention.
Q. What made you decide to leave UConnectCare?
A. I will truly miss this work, but it was really after 40 years, it was just time for me to pass the torch on to someone else. I really kind of feel like I've accomplished what I needed to.
Honestly, my father died two years ago. I just kind of felt like I did what I needed to do in my career to make my family proud. I’m proud of how the agency has grown and I am leaving it, I hope, better than it was when I took over and in good hands with the current leadership and the interim CEO Kathy Hodgins.
With this new position, it gives me the chance to get back to my roots of hands-on assistance and help this social care grant grow and be successful and to help people who really sometimes just need the basics to have a better life.
The Town of Pavilion Republican Committee is actively seeking individuals who may be interested in serving their community as a candidate for office for the following positions:
Town Council (2 positions)
All interested parties should email their letter of interest to: Committee Chair, Erica Welch at: republicancommittee.top@gmail.com no later than Tuesday, February 18. Please include a good phone number. Interviews will be conducted on February 20.
Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) today released the following statement following President Trump’s announcement that he will impose tariffs on goods from Canada, Mexico, and China:
“It would be nice if Donald Trump could start focusing on getting the prices down instead of making them go up.
“All tariffs are not created equal. Donald Trump is aiming his new tariffs at Mexico, Canada, and China but they will likely hit Americans in their wallets. I am concerned these new tariffs will further drive up costs for American consumers.
“We should be focused on going hard against competitors who rig the game, like China, rather than attacking our allies. If these tariffs go into full effect, they will raise prices for everything from groceries, to cars, to gas, making it even harder for middle-class families to just get by.”
On February 11 at 6 p.m., come to the latest exhibit opening at the Holland Land Office Museum. "A Dressmakers Work: Fashioning the 19th-Century," will be officially open! Be the first to step back into a 19th-century dressmaker shop, pick out your fashions, and see the completed gowns and dresses. The exhibit highlights the over 300 highly talented and industrious women who worked as dressmakers across Genesee County from 1860 to 1900. All are welcome to attend the opening, as it is FREE! Refreshments will also be provided. We hope to see you there! If you would like to let us know of your attendance feel free to call the museum at 585-343-4727 or email us at hollandlandoffice@gmail.com.
Join us at the Holland Land Office Museum for the next edition of Trivia Night @ the Museum on Thursday, February 13, at 7 p.m. In honor of President's Day, come and test your knowledge of our nation's Commander-in-Chiefs. Admission is $5 or $3 for museum members. Please contact the museum at 585-343-4727 or hollandlandoffice@gmail.com if you plan to attend.
The Holland Land Office Museum is proud to welcome back Reverend Jeremai Williams as our next Guest Speaker on Friday, February 21 at 7 p.m. Reverend Williams will be presenting with Gregory Brice in honor of Black History month on "African American Inventors," who have had a lasting impact on our lives as we know it. Admission is $5 or $3 for museum members. If you would like to attend, please contact the museum at 585-343-4727 or hollandlandoffice@gmail.com.
On February 27, at 9a.m., listen to County Historian Michael Eula present for our FREE morning coffee program Java with Joe! Michael will be presenting on a chapter out of his second book he is finishing, entitled "Hidden History of Genesee County." Admission is FREE and both coffee and donuts will be provided. Please contact the museum at 585-343-4727 or hollandlandoffice@gmail.com if you plan to attend.
Come enjoy the winter season at the Genesee County Park and Forest! Join us this February and March for a variety of walks, hikes, and programs.
Programs include:
Saturday, February 8 – Moonlight Snowshoe Hike
Saturday, February 15 – Great Backyard Bird Count
Saturday, February 15 – Through the Year: Stories from the Oldest County Forest in New York State. Presented in partnership with the Letchworth State Park Humphrey Nature Center. This program is free!
Wednesday, February 19, Thursday, February 20 and Friday, February 21 – Mid-Winter Break Adventures
Saturday, March 15 – Junior ACORNS Orientation and Trail Ranger Training
Saturday, March 22 – Early Spring Woods Walk at DeWitt Recreation Area
Saturday, March 29 – Amphibian Adventure
Walks are led by a guide who takes you through forest, meadow and wetland habitats. Each will explore a different topic. Walks are approximately 1 - 2 miles long over easy terrain and all are family friendly.
Cost is $5 per person, $10 per family unless otherwise noted. Please pre-register to receive exact meeting location and other details! Register by visiting https://bit.ly/GenCoParkRegistration or by calling 585-344-1122
For more information visit our website at www.geneseeny.gov/parks or contact Claudia Nusstein at Claudia.Nusstein@geneseeny.gov or 585-344-1122.
The Zonta Club of Batavia-Genesee County has continued their mission to tackle Period Poverty in our community. In January, the club donated $1000 worth of period products to Community Action and The Heart of Kindness Center.
According to a 2023 YouGov survey, 37% of all menstruating American females say they or their family have struggled to afford menstrual products and almost half (47%) agree that the current economic climate causes them stress about their ability to afford period products.
These donations are a continuation of the Zonta Club’s initiative to combat period poverty from last year when $1000 in products were donated to the Richmond Memorial Library Comfort Boxes and Community Action. For more information, please reach out to the Zonta Club at Zontabatavia@gmail.com.
Tompkins Financial Corporation ("Tompkins" or the "Company") reported diluted earnings per share of $1.37 for the fourth quarter of 2024, up 5.4% and 30.5% compared to the immediate prior quarter and the fourth quarter of 2023, respectively. Net income for the fourth quarter of 2024 was $19.7 million, up $1.0 million or 5.5% compared to the third quarter of 2024, and up $4.7 million, or 31.0%, when compared to the fourth quarter of 2023.
For the year ended December 31, 2024, diluted earnings per share of $4.97 were up 653.0% compared to the year ended December 31, 2023. Net income for 2024 was $70.9 million, an increase of $61.3 million compared to 2023. The 2023 results included an after-tax loss of $52.9 million or $3.69 loss per diluted share, related to the sale of $510.5 million of available-for-sale debt securities. Earnings performance for 2024 benefited from increased net interest income, growth in fee-based businesses and lower operating expenses.
Tompkins President and CEO, Stephen Romaine, commented, "We are pleased to report increased earnings for the year and fourth quarter of 2024. Our improved results were driven by growth in revenue and lower operating expense. Revenue growth was broad and supported by strong loan growth, deposit growth, and growth in our fee-based businesses. Our fourth quarter ended the year with 9.4% annualized loan growth, 14 basis points of net interest margin expansion and improving profitability metrics. We look forward to the new year as we believe we remain well positioned to continue to drive growth through quality customer relationships."
SELECTED HIGHLIGHTS FOR THE PERIOD:
Net interest margin for the fourth quarter of 2024 was 2.93%, improved from the immediate prior quarter of 2.79%, and 2.82% for the same period of 2023.
Total average cost of funds of 1.88% for the fourth quarter of 2024 was down 13 basis points compared to the third quarter of 2024, as a result of funding mix and lower interest rates.
Total fee-based services (insurance, wealth management, service charges on deposit accounts and cards) revenues for the fourth quarter of 2024 were up $1.3 million or 7.7% compared to the fourth quarter of 2023.
Total noninterest expenses for the fourth quarter of 2024 were in line with the third quarter of 2024, and down $1.3 million or 2.6% compared to the fourth quarter of 2023.
Total loans at December 31, 2024 were up $138.7 million, or 2.4% compared to September 30, 2024 (9.4% on an annualized basis), and up $414.0 million, or 7.4%, from December 31, 2023.
Total deposits at December 31, 2024 were $6.5 billion, down $106.1 million, or 1.6%, from September 30, 2024, and up $72.0 million, or 1.1%, from December 31, 2023.
Loan to deposit ratio at December 31, 2024 was 93.0%, compared to 89.4% at September 30, 2024, and 87.6% at December 31, 2023.
Regulatory Tier 1 capital to average assets was 9.27% at December 31, 2024, up compared to 9.19% at September 30, 2024, and 9.08% at December 31, 2023.
NET INTEREST INCOME
Net interest income was $56.3 million for the fourth quarter of 2024, up $3.1 million or 5.8% compared to the third quarter of 2024, and up $3.9 million or 7.5% compared to the fourth quarter of 2023. The increase in net interest income compared to the third quarter of 2024 was due to improvement in net interest margin, which is explained further below, and an increase in average loan balances. The increase when compared to the fourth quarter of 2023 was due to increases in both average loan balances and average loan yields, and was partially offset by higher average funding costs.
For the year ended December 31, 2024, net interest income was $211.1 million, an increase of $1.6 million or 0.8% when compared to the year ended December 31, 2023. The increase reflects growth in average loan balances and higher yields on average earning assets, partially offset by higher average cost of funds.
Net interest margin was 2.93% for the fourth quarter of 2024, up 14 basis points when compared to the immediate prior quarter, and up 11 basis points from 2.82% for the fourth quarter of 2023. The increase in net interest margin, when compared to the most recent prior quarter, was mainly due to lower funding costs resulting from growth in average deposits and lower market rates. The increase in net interest margin when compared to the same period prior year was mainly a result of higher yields on average interest earning assets and higher average loan balances, and was partially offset by higher average funding costs.
Average loans for the quarter ended December 31, 2024 were up $100.9 million, or 1.7%, from the third quarter of 2024, and were up $445.1 million, or 8.1%, compared to the prior year period. The increase in average loans over both prior periods was mainly in the commercial real estate and commercial and industrial portfolios. The average yield on interest-earning assets for the quarter ended December 31, 2024 was 4.67%, a slight increase from 4.66% for the quarter ended September 30, 2024, and up from 4.34% for the quarter ended December 31, 2023.
Average total deposits of $6.6 billion for the fourth quarter of 2024 were up $217.3 million, or 3.4%, compared to the third quarter of 2024, and up $91.9 million or 1.4% compared to the same period in 2023. The cost of interest-bearing deposits of 2.31% for the fourth quarter of 2024 was down 4 basis points from 2.35% for the third quarter of 2024, and up 27 basis points from 2.04% for the fourth quarter of 2023. The ratio of average noninterest bearing deposits to average total deposits for the fourth quarter of 2024 was 28.0% compared to 28.9% for the third quarter of 2024, and 29.6% for the fourth quarter of 2023. The average cost of interest-bearing liabilities for the fourth quarter of 2024 of 2.53% represents a decrease of 18 basis points over the third quarter of 2024, and an increase of 28 basis points over the same period in 2023.
NONINTEREST INCOME
Noninterest income of $20.8 million for the fourth quarter of 2024 was up $2.0 million or 10.5% compared to the same period in 2023. The increase in quarterly noninterest income when compared to the same period in 2023 was mainly due to increases in fee-based revenues, which includes insurance commissions and fees, up $698,000 or 9.0%; wealth management fees, up $456,000 or 10.3%; service charges on deposit accounts, up $81,000 or 4.6%; and card services income, up $60,000 or 2.1%. Other income was up $763,000 or 38.6% for the quarter ended December 31, 2024 compared to the same period in 2023, and included increases in gains on loan sales and derivative swap fee income.
Noninterest income of $88.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2024 was up $77.9 million or 760.5% compared to the year ended December 31, 2023. The increase in noninterest income compared to 2023 was mainly due to the $70.0 million pre-tax loss on the sale of available-for-sale debt securities in 2023 as discussed above. Also contributing to the increase for the year ended December 31, 2024 over the prior year were fee-based revenues, which includes insurance commissions and fees, up $1.7 million or 4.7%; wealth management fees, up $1.6 million or 9.1%; service charges on deposit accounts, up $375,000 or 5.4%; and card services income, up $569,000 or 5.0%. Other income was up $3.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2024 compared to 2023, and included increases in gains on loan sales, derivative swap fee income and earnings on bank-owned life insurance.
NONINTEREST EXPENSE
Noninterest expense was $50.0 million for the fourth quarter of 2024, down $1.3 million or 2.6% compared to the fourth quarter of 2023. Other operating expenses for the quarter were down $3.0 million or 20.4% from the same period prior year and included decreases in technology, down $1.1 million; marketing, down $665,000; other losses, down $364,000; and professional fees, down $242,000. Noninterest expense for the year ended December 31, 2024 was $199.6 million, a decrease of $3.7 million or 1.8% compared to the $203.3 million reported for 2023. The year-over-year decrease was mainly driven by lower other operating expenses, which were down $5.1 million or 9.1% and included decreases in technology, down $1.3 million; marketing, down $1.2 million; professional fees, down $1.0 million; retirement plan expense, down $709,000; and travel and meeting expense, down $667,000. Partially offsetting these decreases, FDIC insurance expense was up $1.4 million or 32.5% year-over-year.
INCOME TAX EXPENSE
The provision for income tax expense for the fourth quarter of 2024 was $6.0 million for an effective rate of 23.5%, compared to a provision for tax expense of $3.1 million and an effective rate of 17.2% for the same quarter in 2023. For the year ended December 31, 2024, the provision for income tax expense was $22.0 million and the effective tax rate was 23.7% compared to tax expense of $2.5 million and an effective tax rate of 20.6% for 2023. Increased tax expense for both the quarter and year-to-date periods in 2024 was mainly a result of lower income in 2023 associated with the loss on the sale of securities described above.
In 2024, the Company's average assets exceeded the $8.0 billion threshold for receiving certain New York State tax benefits associated with the Company’s real estate investment trust (“REIT”) subsidiaries. Therefore, the Company did not recognize any tax benefit in connection with the REITs in 2024. In the fourth quarter of 2024, the Company’s bank subsidiary approved the dissolution of the REITs.
ASSET QUALITY
The allowance for credit losses represented 0.94% of total loans and leases at December 31, 2024, unchanged compared to the most recent prior quarter, and up from 0.92% reported at December 31, 2023. The year over year increase in the allowance for credit losses coverage ratio includes changes for qualitative factors relating to loan growth and asset quality, model assumptions changes, and updates to economic forecasts for unemployment and GDP. The increase in allowance for credit losses was partially offset by lower off-balance sheet reserves due to model changes related to utilization rates and a decrease in loan pipeline. The ratio of the allowance to total nonperforming loans and leases was 111.06% at December 31, 2024, compared to 88.51% at September 30, 2024, and 82.84% at December 31, 2023. The increase in the ratio compared to the same prior year period was due to the decrease in nonperforming loans and leases discussed in more detail below.
Provision for credit losses for the fourth quarter of 2024 was $1.4 million compared to $1.8 million for the same period in 2023. Provision for credit losses for the year ended December 31, 2024 was $6.6 million compared to $4.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2023. The increase in provision expense for the full year compared to 2023 was mainly driven by loan growth, an increase in net charge-offs and model assumption updates. Net charge-offs for the three months and year ended December 31, 2024 were $857,000 and $2.5 million, respectively, compared to net charge-offs of $410,000 and $1.6 million for the same periods in 2023.
Nonperforming assets represented 0.80% of total assets at December 31, 2024, unchanged from December 31, 2023 but up slightly compared to 0.78% at September 30, 2024. At December 31, 2024, nonperforming loans and leases totaled $50.9 million, compared to $62.6 million at September 30, 2024 and $62.3 million at December 31, 2023. The decrease in nonperforming loans and leases at December 31, 2024 compared to December 31, 2023 was due to one commercial real estate loan for $14.2 million being moved from nonperforming loans to other real estate owned. The increase in loans past due 30-89 days at December 31, 2024 compared to prior quarter end and December 31, 2023 was mainly due to the inclusion of a $17.4 million commercial real estate loan.
Special Mention and Substandard loans and leases totaled $111.1 million at December 31, 2024, compared to $126.0 million reported at September 30, 2024, and $123.1 million reported at December 31, 2023. The decrease was mainly due to the reclassification of one commercial real estate loan from nonperforming loans to other real estate owned as mentioned above.
CAPITAL POSITION
Capital ratios at December 31, 2024 remained well above the regulatory minimums for well-capitalized institutions. The ratio of total capital to risk-weighted assets was 13.08% at December 31, 2024, compared to 13.21% at September 30, 2024, and 13.36% at December 31, 2023. The decrease in the ratio is mainly a result of loan growth during the fourth quarter of 2024. The ratio of Tier 1 capital to average assets was 9.27% at December 31, 2024, compared to 9.19% at September 30, 2024, and 9.08% at December 31, 2023.
LIQUIDITY POSITION
The Company's liquidity position at December 31, 2024 was stable and consistent with the immediate prior quarter end. Liquidity is enhanced by ready access to national and regional wholesale funding sources including Federal funds purchased, repurchase agreements, brokered deposits, Federal Reserve Bank's Discount Window advances and Federal Home Loan Banks (FHLB) advances. The Company maintained ready access to liquidity of $1.3 billion, or 16.4% of total assets at December 31, 2024.
Held at Gates-Chili Friday night, the Byron-Bergen/Le Roy girls swim team brought home their third-straight Genesee Region/Niagara Orleans title with 372 points.
BBLR won all three relays, with Anna Kent, Rena Wilson, Mikayla Yohon, and Lea Donofrio starting the night off in the Medley Relay (2:03.58). Senior Haylee Gartz broke the BBLR school record in the 50 Freestyle on the first leg of the 200 Freestyle Relay with a 25.20. Along with Yohon, Donofrio, and Kara Valdes, BBLR also broke the school record in that relay with a 1:44.98. Gartz, Kent, Rose Wilson, and Valdes placed first in the 400 Freestyle with a 3:55.48.
Gartz was chosen as Co-Swimmer of the Meet due to her outstanding performances, including first place in the 200 Freestyle with a 2:00.25 and 100 Freestyle with a 54.77. Yohon also placed first in the 50 Freestyle with a season-best 26.27 and second in the 100 Butterfly (1:06.59.) Valdes placed third in both the 50 Freestyle (26.77) and 500 Freestyle (5:55.56). Kent placed second in the 100 Backstroke (1:06.58).
Newfane’s girls came in second with 247 points. Lauren Enderton, Kimberly Schmitt, Avery Stevenson, and Sara Klinger placed second with a 2:05.14. Stevenson also placed second in the 50 Freestyle (26.69) and third in the 100 Freestyle (59.36). Enderton came in third in the 100 Breaststroke with a 1:12.81. Schmitt placed second in the 100 Breaststroke (1:17.87).
Harley Allendale Columbia’s girls came in third with 222 points. Maria Nichols placed first in the 500 Freestyle with a 5:38.54 and second in the 200 Freestyle with a 2:06.68. Sophomore Chloe Terio placed second in the 200 IM with a 2:33.34 and third in the 100 Butterfly (1:08.73.)
Royalton-Hartland came in fourth with 199 points. Their 200 Medley Relay came in fourth (Ava Achtyl, Sam Fox, Abigail Glyshaw, and Maria Trombley). Glyshaw also placed fourth in the 200 IM (2:41.81).
Oakfield-Alabama’s girls came in fifth with 164 points. Freshman Tori Davis placed first in the 100 Backstroke with a 1:02.86 and second in the 100 Freestyle with a 58.11.
Akron finished sixth (156 points) with Audrey Garverick placing second in the 500 Freestyle with a 5:53.90 and fourth in the 200 Freestyle (2:13.68). Brooke Milhollen placed fourth in the 100 Backstroke (1:12.88).
Albion finished seventh (149 points) with Willow Gaines touching first in the 100 Breaststroke (1:16.15) and fourth in the 50 Freestyle (26.89). Jillian LeBaron, Gaines, Keira Sidari, and Anna Grillo placed third in the 200 Medley Relay (2:11.49) and Sidari placed third in the 200 Freestyle (2:10.92).
Pembroke/Alexander placed eighth (133 points) with Junior Rose Reisdorf placing third in the 200 IM (2:39.75).
Batavia/Notre Dame placed ninth with 128 points. Senior Maddy Bellamy brought home Co-Swimmer of the Meet honors with her first place finish in the 200 IM (2:19.82) and 100 Butterfly (1:03.67).
